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Religious Leader

Religious leaders are responsible for leading worship, and providing guidance and instruction to members of their faith, sect or tribe.

They are also responsible for any associated administrative duties.

The term 'religious leader' covers a range of titles and functions such as Aboriginal ceremonial celebrant, chaplain, imam, minister, missionary, monk, nun, pastor, priest, rabbi, religious brother/sister, religion teacher, religious counsellor and religious youth leader.

Religious leaders work long hours and extensive travel may be required.

Some may operate as missionaries in isolated areas or overseas.

Emotional and physical stress can be associated with this occupation.

Religious leaders may perform the following tasks, which can vary according to the religion and the denomination:

TASKS

plan ceremonies and services, including the use of music
conduct services of public worship and administer sacraments as required
participate in and contribute to the social and welfare activities of communities
counsel and encourage people to be aware of their social and religious responsibilities
provide personal support to people undergoing a crisis such as illness, bereavement or family breakdown
conduct classes in religious instruction and organise participation in community projects
supervise prayer and discussion groups, retreats and seminars
conduct baptisms, marriages, funerals and other services
translate, interpret, explain and communicate scripture
keep records as required by civil or church law
visit the sick and elderly

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

a deep personal commitment to a particular religious calling
enjoy working with people
an awareness of the needs of the community
an understanding of the behaviour and responsibilities expected of religious leaders

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

There are various ways to become a religious leader. You can enter this occupation by gaining formal theology qualifications, as a specialist in another field (welfare, for example) or through on-the-job experience and training. These arrangements will vary according to the denomination and the nature of the work being sought. Contact the relevant religious organisation for more details about entry requirements.

Additional Information

The actual tasks and duties carried out by religious leaders differ between religions. Contact the relevant religious organisation for specific task descriptions and information about training and entry requirements.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

After suitable training, placements are often made available for service in religious institutions, hospitals, prisons, schools, the Australian Defence Force, social welfare organisations and the general community.

Employment opportunities are influenced by the number of people involved in religion and attending services, as well as the range of services offered by religious organisations. In some religions, job opportunities may be better for those who are willing to work in country regions.

Overseas work is often available. Opportunities arise in religious and inter-church bodies or through overseas missionary agencies.

Trained religious leaders often move into other fields in the community, such as welfare. They may also work in different areas of the ministry, such as youth welfare, music or pastoral care.

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